Categories

Types of Qualitative Research Design

By Jeffrey Whitten

Researching social phenomena.

Qualitative Research seeks to understand social phenomena from the viewpoints of those being studied, is holistic and relies on flexible research strategies, according to the World Health Organization. A research design is a research plan that includes methods of data collection and analysis. It has traditionally been used by academic disciplines, such as sociology, psychology and anthropology but is being increasingly used in applied professions like nursing, education and public health.

Unstructured Interviews

Interview.

One specific type of qualitative research design is interviews. In the unstructured interview, the questions and answers are not specifically defined in advance. This is the most common method of collecting data in cultural anthropology.

Semi-Structured Interviews

List of questions.

Semi-structured interviews are conducted based on a written list of questions or topics. The order of the questions can vary and the researcher can follow new leads and topics arising during the course of the interview.

Structured Interviewing

Shaking hands after interview.

At the other end of the spectrum is structured interviewing, in which the researcher asks all respondents exactly the same questions in the same order. Interviews can be conducted among groups as well as individuals.

Observation

Observation studies.

Another type of qualitative research design is observation. Observation can reveal habits the subjects are unaware of and can help place behavior in context. One way of observing is unobtrusive where the subjects do not know they are being watched or in an obvious way, where they do. Unobtrusive methods are subject to serious ethical dilemmas. The investigator can either participate in the events he is observing or not . Like interviews, observation can be structured, where the behaviors to be observed are more specifically defined or unstructured. Observation can be done through continuous monitoring or through spot checks.

References

About the Author

Jeffrey Whitten started writing in 2009, with expertise in politics and government. His work has appeared in the "Independent Appeal." Whitten has a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy in political science from the University of Southern California.